Camp quick hits: Pollard hitting hard

When the secondary did blocking sled drills, most of the cornerbacks and safeties sternly touched the pads. But when veteran safety Bernard Pollard hit the pads, he lifted the entire sled and grunted loudly. One nearby fan standing behind the sled jumped in fright when Pollard hit so hard. – Jordan Godwin

OKLAHOMA DRILL

For about five minutes, the Texans defense ran the Oklahoma drill or bull in the ring, as it’s also known. The player got fired up, and some hits lifted players off of their feet, but unlike the traditional running of the drill, no one hit the ground. – Jordan Godwin

KAREEM THE DREAM

While there have been some doubts about cornerback Kareem Jackson’s speed, there has never been much concern about the physicality of the first-round pick.

On one play, Jackson (5-10, 195) and monstrous right tackle Eric Winston (6-7, 316) went head-to-head and Winston went to the ground. Granted, Jackson was going full speed, but the collision was still impressive. – Jordan Godwin

TORRI MAKING A NAME FOR HIMSELF

Rookie safety Torri Williams from Purdue came up with a big play when he intercepted a pass thrown by backup John David Booty.

Coaches have liked Williams’ athleticism, but he’s competing in a veteran heavy safety position led by Pollard and Eugene Wilson. Williams’ youthful agility could be a complementary backup for the experienced starters. – Jordan Godwin

FAN FAVORITES

After Saturday morning’s open practice, many players gave thanks to the fans by sticking around to sign autographs.

Many signed, but a select few generous players lasted longer than 20 minutes. Center Chris Myers, defensive tackles Earl Mitchell and Shaun Cody, defensive end Connor Barwin and superstar receiver Andre Johnson stayed for a long time for the satisfied fans. – Jordan Godwin

BARWIN WITH THE HANDS

After Friday’s practice, second-year defensive end Connor Barwin was asked about his ability and backpedaling in pass coverage.

Barwin said if he’s not rushing the quarterback, he’s capable of covering the passing lanes. On one play, Barwin intercepted a pass thrown by quarterback Matt Schaub, and Barwin ran it back about 50 yards for a touchdown. – Jordan Godwin